Valproic Acid Blood Test

What Is Valproic Acid?

Valproic (val-PRO-ik) acid is an anticonvulsant medicine that doctors often prescribe to prevent seizures. It’s also used to treat bipolar disorder and to help prevent migraine headaches. It’s sometimes used along with other medicines.

Why Are Valproic Acid Tests Done?

A valproic acid test measures the amount of valproic acid in the blood. 

Valproic acid blood levels must stay within a specific range for the drug to work properly. Doctors must prescribe enough to prevent symptoms, but not so much that it causes side effects. One of the most serious side effects of valproic acid is liver damage. How quickly the liver can process the drug varies from person to person. So doctors might order the test regularly during treatment.

If a current dose of valproic acid is working well, regular blood tests can help doctors keep the dose steady. If symptoms don't improve or a child has side effects, the test can help doctors find a more effective dose. This close monitoring is extra important if a child takes other medicines too because some can change the way the body uses valproic acid.

Top Things to Know

• A valproic acid test checks how much of the medicine valproic acid is in the blood.
• The test is given to kids taking valproic acid for things like seizures, bipolar disorder, and migraine headaches. 
• Kids may need to stop taking certain medicines or fast before the blood test. 
• Your doctor can explain what it means if valproic acid levels are low or high.

How Can I Help My Child Prepare for a Blood Test?

Your doctor may recommend getting a valproic acid test at a specific time (for example, just before your child's daily dose of valproic acid) because drug levels may change throughout the day.

To help kids get ready for a blood test, find out if they need to fast (not eat or drink) or should stop taking medicines before the test. Explain what to expect during the test. If your child is nervous about it, work together on ways to stay calm. Deep breathing or even imagining being in a place that makes your child feel safe and relaxed can help.

What Do Valproic Acid Blood Test Results Mean?

Your doctor will explain what the results of the valproic acid test mean for your child. A “normal” valproic acid level can vary based on things like age, gender, and what condition is being treated. 

Low Valproic Acid Level

When the valproic acid level is low, it means that there isn’t enough of the medicine in the blood. So, it won’t work as well to help prevent conditions like seizures and migraine headaches or treat bipolar disorder. 

High Valproic Acid Level

A high valproic acid level means there’s too much valproic acid in the blood. This may cause side effects like an upset stomach, confusion, tiredness, pancreatitis, and liver problems. 

What Else Should I Know?

Depending on the test results, your doctor may increase or lower the dose of valproic acid. If you have questions about the valproic acid test or what the results mean, talk with your doctor.